Wakefield, Clare Valley (South Australia, Australia) Riesling 2005

($17, Brown Forman): Wakefield has fashioned a vibrant, bone dry Riesling with long, limey flavors from grapes grown in South Australia’s Clare Valley, north of the Barossa.  Despite its northern locale, which should make it too hot (remember north equals heat Down Under) for a delicate variety like Riesling, the diurnal temperature variation in the Clare produces riveting, lively Rieslings.  And this one epitomizes what that region has to offer.  The balance and laser-like focus make it easy to love, especially with spicy Asian fare. 90 Michael Apstein May 1, 2007